The final week of the AFL’s Trade Period is upon us and to use Carlton CEO Greg Swann’s analogy, it’s a bit like school homework; if you know you have three weeks to do it you will leave it ‘til the last minute! 

With that in mind, it’s expected there will be a flurry of activity at the trading table this week – and Carlton could again be in the thick of the action.  

To recap, here’s what we’ve done so far:

  • Shaun Hampson traded to Richmond in exchange for a second round draft pick, now #32 overall, after compensation picks were allocated. 
  • Eddie Betts has gone to Adelaide under the AFL’s free agency rules, after being offered a lucrative deal. 
  • Dale Thomas decided he’ll look better in navy blue and has signed a four-year deal with Carlton.
  • With Thomas in and Betts out, Carlton did not receive any compensation draft picks under the free agency rules.

Speculation and rumours continue to swirl. Here’s a wrap up of what’s being said about the Blues:

“Memo to AFL players: while holidaying in Bali you now have new teammates.” – Michael Gleeson, The Age

“To be perfectly honest it’s not fair on the players, there’s a lot of pressure on them. Also from an administrator’s point of view it just goes for too long.” – Carlton CEO Greg Swann speaking about the length of the trade period. 

“After seemingly showing interest in every player on the market, it has been a quiet month for the Blues.” – Herald Sun

‘‘I would have liked to have got it wrapped up last week ... (draft picks) 28, 29 they are going back and forth over which sounds a little bit funny.” Sam Docherty’s manager Matt Bain speaking on SEN.